TOP 14 Best Asics Running Shoes for Women Reviewed 2024

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14 Best Asics Running Shoes for Women: All Your Cushioning & Stability Needs Covered

Asics have been a well-known and top-rated running shoe brand for many years.

Though their style is more traditional when compared to the futuristic trends of some brands, they have a loyal following and consistently produce high quality, reliable shoes.

They’re also leading the way in women’s specific shoes.

This article will list the best Asics running shoes for women in 2024 and then give a little more insight into what Asics has to offer.

TOP 14 Best Asics Running Shoes for Women 2024

Asics Women's Gel Cumulus 22

ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 22 Running Shoes, 5, Piedmont Grey/Light Steel
  • 3D Print Upper: Increases forefoot support and comfort
  • 3D print upper:
  • FLYTEFOAM Propel Technology: ASICS energetic foam formulation that provides supreme bounce thanks to a unique elastomer compound.
  • Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System: Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
  • Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System: Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.

Review: The Gel Cumulus is a highly popular, well cushioned daily running shoe. It’s well suited to neutral runners with a tendency towards underpronation and has a nice balance of flexibility, soft cushioning and lightweight responsiveness.

The single-piece engineered mesh upper is designed with 3D printed overlays to provide a little stability while the upper as a whole creates a snug, but breathable fit.

Pros

  • Flytefoam Propel technology.
  • 3D print upper.
  • High abrasion rubber outsole.
  • Good option for underpronators.
  • Lightweight and well-cushioned.

Cons

  • Fit runs slightly small.

Takeaway

This is a top rated daily trainer that is nicely cushioned and comfortable. A reliable choice for neutral runners and easily some of the best Asics women’s running shoes.

Asics Women's Gel Kayano 26

ASICS Women's Gel-Kayano 26 Long Sleeve Running Shoes, 11, Piedmont Grey/Sun Coral
  • SpevaFoam 45 Lasting - Employs 45 degree full length SpevaFoam 45 lasting material for a soft platform feel and improved comfort.
  • FlyteFoam Lyte Technology - ASICS lightest weight midsole formulation that provides continuous cushion thanks to organic nano fibers.
  • FlyteFoam Propel Technology - ASICS energetic foam formulation that provides supreme bounce thanks to a unique elastomer compound.
  • Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System - Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
  • Trusstic System technology - Reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe.

Review: A go-to-shoe for many overpronators, the Kayano is a very comfortable stability shoe with excellent shock absorption.

Flytefoam Propel and Flytefoam Lyte cushioning provide a soft, bouncy feel, while plenty of gel in the heel and forefoot absorb impact.

They don’t always have the cushiest feel, but sometimes firmer cushioning does a better job of absorbing impact without sacrificing responsiveness. And, the arch support on these shoes is second to none.

Pros

  • Excellent long distance shoe.
  • Guidance Trusstic System provides plenty of torsional stability.
  • Duomax midsole provides reliable pronation support.
  • Removable insoles allow for custom inserts.

Cons

  • Slightly firm feel to the cushioning.

Takeaway

The perfect everyday shoe for those who need solid support against overpronation and the best Asics women’s running shoes for stability.

Asics Women's GT 2000 8

ASICS Women's GT-2000 8 Running Shoes, 8, Blue Coast/White
  • Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System - Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle
  • FLYTEFOAM Midsole Technology - Our FLYTEFOAM technology provides exceptional bounce back and responsiveness no matter the distance, utilizing organic super fibers to help reduce packing out that traditionally happens with softer, low density foams
  • AHAR Outsole - Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability
  • Dynamic DuoMax Support System - This evolution of DuoMax system enhances stability and support, with reduced weight and increased platform support
  • Trusstic System technology - Reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe

Review: A more affordable alternative to the Kayano, the GT 2000 was the go-to-shoe for overpronators before the Kayano came along.

It’s a reliable stability shoe with comfortable cushioning, albeit a little less responsive than the Kayano. It’s well suited to people with medium arches who run a range of distances.

Pros

  • Lightweight.
  • Available in wide sizing.
  • Dynamic Duomax and Trusstic System provide stability.
  • Breathable mesh upper.
  • High abrasion rubber outsole.

Cons

  • None.

Takeaway

If you’re looking for a lightweight, well cushioned and versatile stability shoe, this is it.

Asics Women's Gel Nimbus 22

ASICS Women's Gel-Nimbus 22 Running Shoes, 13, Watershed Rose/Rose Gold
  • FlyteFoam Propel Technology - ASICS energetic foam formulation that provides supreme bounce thanks to a unique elastomer compound.
  • Trusstic System technology - Reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe.
  • AHAR Outsole - Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability.
  • Guidance Line Midsole Technology - Vertical flex groove decouples the tooling along the line of progression for enhanced gait efficiency.
  • FlyteFoam Lyte Technology - ASICS lightest weight midsole formulation that provides continuous cushion thanks to organic nano fibers.

Review: Similar to the Cumulus but softer, the Gel Nimbus 22 is a highly cushioned neutral trainer designed for heel strikers with normal to high arches.

The Flytefoam Propel midsole provides plenty of responsive cushioning while the addition of gel and the high abrasion rubber outsole make for a very durable shoe that will cope with many miles.

Pros

  • Plush cushioning.
  • Wide sizing available.
  • Plenty of gel in the heel for shock absorption.
  • High abrasion rubber outsole.

Cons

  • A little heavy.

Takeaway

This is a maximally cushioned shoe for those looking for maximum comfort over long distances. It could be the best Asics running shoes for women in 2024.

Asics Women's Gel Nimbus Lite

ASICS Women's Gel-Nimbus Lite Running Shoes, 13, White/Piedmont Grey
  • Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System - Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.Sustainable FLYTEFOAM Midsole Technology - Our FLYTEFOAM technology provides exceptional bounce back and responsiveness, utilizing sustainable, lightweight yet durable wood-derived materials for a cushioned ride

Review: The Nimbus Lite is a lighter and faster version of the Nimbus 22 above. It’s a great neutral shoe that is probably going to be more popular than the Nimbus 22 once it becomes more widely known.

Plush cushioning, good responsiveness and plenty of flexibility in a lightweight package make it super comfortable and easy to run in and leave you wondering why you’d ever run in something heavier.

Pros

  • Gel cushioning in the rear and forefoot.
  • Flytefoam midsole is lightweight, soft and responsive.
  • Made with lots of recycled materials makes it a more sustainable option.
  • Wide, roomy toe box.

Cons

  • Absence of Trusstic system makes for very slightly less stability.

Takeaway

A clear winner for neutral runners, this shoe ticks all the boxes.

Asics Women's Novablast

ASICS Women's Novablast Running Shoes, 8.5, Black/Black
  • FLYTEFOAM BLAST -Lightweight, midsole foam with energetic and highly responsive cushioning and bounce for an efficient ride.
  • AHAR Plus Outsole -Strategically positioned in critical areas of the outsole, this exceptionally durable compound is 50% more durable than standard ASICS High Abrasion Rubber.
  • Ortholite Lasting -This lasting material features plush underfoot comfort while providing excellent moisture management and a high level of breathability (Ortholite is a registered trademark of ATP Manufacturing LLC.)

Review: A new model for Asics coming complete with new technology and a new feel, the Novablast is Asics’s softest feeling and yet arguably most responsive shoe yet.

It utilizes a thick layer of newly developed Flytefoam Blast foam in the midsole instead of Asics’s usual gel cushioning, which is softer and more responsive than other Flytefoam materials.

It’s built for low mileage runners so it may have limited durability compared to other Asics shoes but it’s likely to become a popular option for many runners.

Pros

  • Flytefoam Blast midsole is soft, light and responsive.
  • Reflective detailing in the upper for low light visibility.
  • AHAR Plus outsole adds to durability and springiness.
  • Engineered mesh upper is soft and breathable.

Cons

  • Narrow fitting.

Takeaway

A soft, springy and reasonably lightweight neutral shoe.

Asics Women's GT 1000 9

Review: A step down from the GT 2000, the GT 1000 was considered the best of Asics’s stability shoes in the early 2000s, so even though it’s now outperformed by the likes of the GT 2000 and Kayano, it’s still a more than adequate stability shoe that should not be discounted.

Pros

  • Updated engineered mesh upper is lightweight and breathable.
  • Rearfoot Gel and Flytefoam Propel midsole.
  • Dynamic Duomax and Guidance Trusstic System for stability.

Cons

  • Narrow fit.

Takeaway

This is a lightweight and breathable stability shoe, ideal for heel strikers who overpronate.

Asics Women's Gel Noosa Tri 11

ASICS Women's Gel-Noosa Tri 11 Running Shoe, Asics Blue/White/Hot Pink, 6.5 M US
  • Impact Guidance System (I.G.S): ASICS design philosophy that employs linked componentry to enhance the foot's natural gait from heel strike to toe-off.
  • Rear foot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning Systems: Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
  • Dynamic duomax Support System: This evolution of duomax system enhances stability and support, with reduced weight and increased platform support.
  • Solyte Midsole Material: A lighter weight midsole compound than ASICS' standard EVA and speva. Also features enhanced cushioning and durability.
  • Propulsion Truss tic: Mimics connective tissue in the foot by creating tension as foot enters propulsion stage.

Review: Designed for triathlon (though admittedly this doesn’t make a whole lot of sense as you’ll only be wearing them for the run component of the triathlon), the Gel Noosa Tri are a lightweight snappy shoe that falls somewhere between a racing flat and a daily running shoe.

The one area they might be useful in a triathlon-specific situation is the seamless upper which allows the shoes to be comfortably worn without socks.

That aside, they make an excellent lightweight and fast feeling stability shoe.

Pros

  • Dynamic Duomax and Impact Guidance System for stability.
  • Gel cushioning for shock absorption.
  • Propulsion plate adds serious energy return.
  • Comfortable seamless upper with ventilation holes.

Cons

  • Fit narrow.
  • Colors may be too ‘out there’ for some.

Takeaway

A really popular lightweight and energizing stability shoe.

Asics Women's Gel Foundation 13

ASICS Women's Gel-Foundation 13 Running Shoes, 6, Indigo Blue/Silver/Seashell PI
  • Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System - Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
  • Guidance Trusstic System Technology - This Trusstic System Technology integrates Guidance Line construction for enhanced gait efficiency while providing midfoot structural integrity.
  • Guidance Line Midsole Technology - Vertical flex groove decouples the tooling along the line of progression for enhanced gait efficiency.
  • Seamless Construction - The use of seamless materials reduces the potential for irritation and friction caused by traditional stitches and seams.
  • SpevaFoam Midsole Material - Improves bounce back characteristics and decreases midsole breakdown.

Review: A popular and extremely comfortable motion control shoe, the Gel Foundation 13 is the shoe for you if your overpronation is out of control or you experience pain from problems such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints or runner’s knee.

They are also great for people with flat feet as their spacious interior allows for wide feet, x-wide sizing is available and there is plenty of room for custom inserts.

Pros

  • Rearfoot and forefoot Gel cushioning.
  • Guidance Trusstic System and Guidance Line Midsole Technology.
  • Comfortable seamless upper.
  • SpevaFoam midsole is responsive and durable.
  • Compatible with custom inserts.

Cons

  • None.

Takeaway

A top rated, well cushioned motion control shoe for extreme stability.

Asics Women's Gel Venture 7

ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 7 Shoes, 11.5, Black/Silver
  • Trail Specific Outsole: Reversed lugs provide uphill and downhill traction on all types of terrain.
  • Rearfoot GEL technology cushioning system: Attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition to midstance.
  • AHAR Outsole: Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability.
  • Ortholite X-40 Sockliner: This premium sockliner features higher rebound properties while providing excellent moisture management and a high-level of breathability (Ortholite is a registered trademark of O2 Partners LLC.)
  • Rearfoot GEL technology cushioning system: Attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition to midstance.

Review: A more affordable entry-mid level shoe, the Gel Venture 7 is a neutral trail shoe with reliable cushioning and traction.

The synthetic leather and mesh upper provides protection against obstacles and debris while the high abrasion rubber outsole includes lugs for increased traction and control over technical terrain.

But, if you need to run on the road for a bit as well, you’ll be able to without feeling like you’re running on a bed of nails.

Pros

  • High abrasion rubber outsole.
  • Rearfoot Gel cushioning.
  • Removable insole allows for custom inserts.
  • Good underfoot feel and ground connection.
  • Good for underpronators.

Cons

  • A little stiff – but trail shoes tend to be.

Takeaway

These shoes are a popular choice for entry level trail runners and walkers.

Asics Women's Gel Excite 7

ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 7 Running Shoes, 9.5, Safety Yellow/White
  • AmpliFoam Midsole: Engineered to maintain durability at softer densities, providing better flexibility, comfort, and platform adaptability ideal for natural running.
  • Rearfoot GEL technology cushioning system: Attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition to midstance.
  • Ortholite Sockliner: Moisture management (Ortholite is a registered trademark of O2 Partners LLC).

Review: The Gel Excite is another entry-mid level neutral shoe, but with plush cushioning and plenty of flexibility. It uses Amplifoam midsole foam which falls somewhere between EVA and Flytefoam in performance, making these shoes excellent value for money.

Pros

  • Lightweight.
  • Available in wide sizing.
  • Gel cushioning technology.
  • Ortholite sockliner provides extra comfort.
  • Amplifoam midsole at the price point of EVA foam.

Cons

  • None for its price point.

Takeaway

A comfortable and reliable entry-mid level road shoe for neutral runners.

Asics Women's Roadhawk FF 2

ASICS Women's Roadhawk FF 2 Running Shoes, 6.5M, MID Grey/White
  • FlyteFoam Propel Technology - ASICS energetic foam formulation that provides supreme bounce thanks to a unique elastomer compound.
  • Seamless Construction - The use of seamless materials reduces the potential for irritation and friction caused by traditional stitches and seams.
  • SpevaFoam 45 Lasting - Employs 45 degree full length SpevaFoam 45 lasting material for a soft platform feel and improved comfort.
  • AHAR Plus Outsole - Strategically positioned in critical areas of the outsole, this exceptionally durable compound is 50% more durable than standard ASICS High Abrasion Rubber.

Review: The Roadhawk FF 2 is a lightweight road shoe that could be a racing flat if you prefer something a little more substantial underfoot for longer distances, or a lightweight snappy road shoe for everyday running if that’s your jam.

They don’t have Gel like many Asics models but instead the midsole relies on just Flytefoam Propel which results in a simple, minimalist feel.

They can be very comfortable once you get used to their slightly unique feel, but they’re really only suited for solid neutral runners with no pronation issues.

Pros

  • Affordable.
  • Flytefoam Propel midsole.
  • Seamless upper.
  • Supportive heel cup.

Cons

  • Lacks a little structure.
  • No wide sizing available.

Takeaway

A versatile, lightweight option for neutral road runners.

Asics Women's LyteRacer TS 7

ASICS Women's LyteRacer Toddler 7 Running Shoes, 7, Directoire Blue/Directoire BLU
  • Seamless Construction - The use of seamless materials reduces the potential for irritation and friction caused by traditional stitches and seams.
  • Trusstic System technology - Reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe.
  • SpevaFoam Midsole Material - Improves bounce back characteristics and decreases midsole breakdown.
  • AHAR Heel plug -
  • HG10MM Heel Gradient - Shifts body mass forward reducing strain on lower limbs.

Review: True to its name, the Lyteracer TS 7 is a lightweight race shoe for neutral runners. It copes well with a wide range of distances, from 5km right through to marathon.

It has a few unique features like the perforated sockliner that allows for ventilation and provides a soft underfoot feel.

Pros

  • SpevaFoam midsole resists compression over long distances.
  • Comfortable seamless upper.
  • Very lightweight and versatile.
  • Trusstic System for midfoot support.

Cons

  • Sizing runs small.

Takeaway

A lightweight, neutral racing shoe for a range of distances.

Asics Women's GlideRide

ASICS Women's GlideRide Running Shoes, 8, Polar Shade/Grey Floss
  • Engineered Mesh Upper: Multi-directional mesh material improves ventilation and stability.
  • GUIDESOLE Technology: The curved sole design and stiff forefoot of our GUIDESOLE technology reduce ankle flexion and provide a shock-absorbent landing zone to lessen fatigue of other leg muscles and increase runner efficiency.
  • FLYTEFOAM Midsole Technology: Our FLYTEFOAM technology provides exceptional bounce back and responsiveness no matter the distance, utilizing organic super fibers to help reduce packing out that traditionally happens with softer, low density foams.
  • Rearfoot GEL technology cushioning system: Attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition to midstance.
  • GUIDESOLE Technology: The curved sole design and stiff forefoot of our GUIDESOLE technology reduce ankle flexion and provide a shock-absorbent landing zone to lessen fatigue of other leg muscles and increase runner efficiency.

Review: For a low drop option, the GlideRide is an excellent choice. With a 5mm drop, it’s designed for midfoot or forefoot strikers with high arches. Despite the high stack height, it also provides an exceptionally stable feel with a well-structured upper and wide underfoot platform.

The midsole plate makes the midsole feel a little stiff but provides a whole new level of responsiveness and propulsion that makes for a fast, springy ride with a rockered effect.

Pros

  • Excellent responsiveness.
  • Stable for a neutral, low drop shoe.
  • Soft, plush upper.
  • Flytefoam and Flytefoam Propel midsole.

Cons

  • May be warm in hot weather.
  • May have a stiff feel (but needed for the rockered effect).

Takeaway

These shoes have a unique feel that take a bit of getting used to, but once you’re past that point, you won’t want to stop.

fitness woman runner athlete running at road

Asics the Traditionalists

Asics have many fans in the running world. Their shoes are comfortable, well-structured and well known for top of the line arch support.

The majority of their shoes fit into the traditional style of running shoe with a higher heel to toe drop (9mm and up) that encourages heel striking and consequently requires hefty cushioning in the heel.

They do have some low drop shoes but they’re arguably less well-known than the likes of the Kayano and Cumulus.

So, if you know you’re a die-hard heel striker and you tend towards either end of the over or under pronation spectrum, you are in the right place.

Asics have some of the best shoes on the market when it comes to stability for overpronation. The Gel Foundation 13 is an excellent motion control shoe, while the Kayano continues to lead the pack of stability shoes.

Both are also great choices for people with flat feet but if you’re looking for more flat feet options, we have all the best right here. We also have all the best stability running shoes on this list.

couple running on treadmill inside fitness gym

Style

This higher drop, traditional tendency does affect the style and overall look of the shoe. Asics maintains its traditional style even in its lower drop shoes, which contrasts with the space odyssey come elfin style that Nike and Adidas shoes have moved towards in recent years.

But it works. Their shoes are as popular as ever and known for being reliable and good quality.

On the other hand, if you prefer the style of Nike and Adidas and are looking for the lower drop, lighter stability options that they offer, we have lists of their best running shoes to get you started. Go here for Nike and here for Adidas.

Midsole Tech

Asics, like most running brands, lagged behind Adidas after its release of the groundbreaking Boost foam, and continued to use EVA while it developed its own proprietary midsole tech.

But, it got there. And now, top of the line Asics midsoles mostly consist of Flytefoam and its descendants, together with the Gel that Asics has used consistently for many years.

Flytefoam Propel is known for its responsiveness, Flytefoam Lyte, for its lightweight, and Flytefoam Blast, a combination of both.

Sizing

Asics is known for fitting narrow and a little small. This is great for people with narrow feet, but admittedly not ideal for people with wide feet.

Wide sizing is available in some models but not all. Be careful to check the width of the shoe before you buy it!

two female runners running together at night in city

Gender Specifics

Asics have been making great moves towards gender-specific shoes.

Many companies simply offer unisex shoes in smaller sizes for women. However, the industry is starting to realize that women’s feet and biomechanics are different from their male counterparts.

According to Asics, women have a different forefoot to heel width ratio than men. Women’s feet tend to have a greater difference between these measurements resulting in a narrower heel fit. To counter this, Asics have developed a narrower last, resulting in shoes with a narrower fitting heel.

Women also tend to be lighter than men, meaning that the cushioning used in men’s shoes may not be soft enough to provide good energy return. Asics are consequently developing a female-specific forefoot foam to provide a softer, more springy feel.

Lastly, Asics have found that due to naturally fluctuating hormones throughout the month, the biomechanics of women’s feet actually change. When estrogen levels are high in the middle of the monthly cycle, women’s muscles are naturally more relaxed, resulting in a lower arch and greater stress on the plantar fascia.

In response to this information, Asics is developing a gender-specific Space Trusstic System to provide the right balance of space, support and flexibility throughout the month.

Looking for more great women’s options? We have a round-up of all the best women’s running shoes so you won’t have to look far.

young woman runner running on city road

Other Sports

Asics is primarily known for running shoes. However, they have an impressive range of shoes for other sports too, include some great workout and cross-training shoes like the popular Met Conviction. If you’d like more options for great women’s workout shoes, check out our guide here.

As you can see, women are starting to make their mark on the running and running shoe world.

There are so many great options out there for fantastic shoes, and the new technology just keeps on coming!

Thank you for reading this guide to the best Asics running shoes for women of 2024.

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